Abstract:
The main concern of this research is to examine
the factors affecting the level of effectiveness of communication
tools used in Sri Lankan export apparel supply chains. Since
information is a very critical aspect in the apparel supply
chain, communication tools are getting forefront to have a
better relationship with both local and international
stakeholders. Hence, knowledge in effective communication
tools is highly required. As per the findings, meetings, emails,
telephone, Skype, video conferences, social media and ERP
system are the major communication tools that are used in Sri
Lankan export apparel industry. Data was collected through a
pilot survey and a secondary survey using questionnaires.
Exploratory factor analysis was used to identify six major
factors which influence the effectiveness of communication
tools that are used in Sri Lankan export apparel supply chain:
(1) reliability of information, (2) usage of communication tools,
(3) geographical factors, (4) processing time/ time spend to
communicate, (5) cost of the communication tool and (6) work
schedule of the employee. Since a similar study has not been
carried out in this industry with respect to Sri Lankan context,
the key findings of this study can act as guidelines for the Sri
Lankan export apparel industry to select the most suitable
communication tool for different purposes to enhance the
performance of supply chain.
